Popular Science Issues to Note When Using Water-Based Ink Dispersants
Water-based ink dispersants play a vital role in the printing industry. They can significantly improve
the fluidity, stability and color expression of inks. However, in order to ensure its best effect,
a series of issues need to be noted when using it.
1. Basic Concepts of Water-Based Ink Dispersants
Water-based ink dispersants are additives designed to improve the performance of water-based inks.
It is usually composed of surfactants and polymers, which can effectively reduce the
surface tension of pigment particles in inks, promote the uniform distribution of pigments in water,
and avoid the sedimentation and aggregation of pigments.
2. Choose the right water-based ink dispersant
Matching ink types: Different types of water-based inks may require different types of dispersants.
For example, a dispersant designed for water-based glass inks may not be suitable for
other types of water-based inks. Therefore, when choosing a dispersant, be sure to make sure it
matches the type of ink used.
Consider the purpose of the ink: The purpose of the ink will also affect the choice of dispersant.
For example, inks used for packaging printing may need to have higher adhesion and
durability, which requires the selection of a dispersant with better performance.
3. Correct addition method
Addition amount: The amount of dispersant added has a direct impact on the performance of the ink. Adding too
little may cause uneven dispersion of the pigment, affecting the stability and color performance of the ink;
adding too much may increase the viscosity of the ink and affect the printing effect. Therefore, it is necessary
to strictly follow the addition amount recommended by the manufacturer.
Addition time: The dispersant should be added in time during the ink preparation process, and ensure sufficient stirring to
ensure that the pigment particles can be evenly dispersed in the ink.
4. Storage and stability
Storage conditions: Water-based ink dispersants should be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place, avoiding
high temperature, humidity and direct sunlight to prevent changes in their
performance.
Stability monitoring: Inks and dispersants stored for a long time should be tested regularly to ensure their stable
performance. If the ink is found to be stratified, precipitated or the viscosity
changes, measures should be taken in time to adjust it.
5. Environmental protection and safety
Environmental protection requirements: With the increase of environmental awareness, the environmental protection
performance of water-based ink dispersants has received more and
more attention. When selecting dispersants, priority should be given to those products that have little impact on the
environment and are biodegradable.
Safety measures: During use, relevant safety operating procedures should be followed and necessary protective
equipment such as gloves, masks and goggles should be worn to prevent
the dispersant from causing harm to the human body.
6. Precautions in practical application
Full stirring: Before and during use, the mixture of ink and dispersant should be fully stirred to ensure that the
pigment particles are evenly dispersed.
Avoid impurities: When using the remaining ink, ensure that no impurities are mixed in to avoid affecting the
printing effect. If necessary, filter treatment should be performed.
Viscosity adjustment: If the viscosity of the ink is found to be too high or too low, it should be adjusted by
adding water or other regulators in appropriate amounts to ensure that
the ink has a suitable viscosity.
7. Future development trends
With the continuous advancement of printing technology and the increasing requirements for environmental
protection, water-based ink dispersants will develop in a more efficient,
environmentally friendly and sustainable direction. Future dispersants may pay more attention to technological
innovation and the development of environmentally friendly materials to
meet the market demand for high-quality, environmentally friendly printed products.
In summary, when using water-based ink dispersants, you need to pay attention to many aspects, including the
selection of suitable dispersants, the correct addition method, storage and
stability monitoring, environmental protection and safety requirements, and precautions in practical applications.
Only by fully understanding and mastering these issues can we ensure
that water-based ink dispersants can play the best role in the printing industry.
